In April, the Primary Elementary School held a celebration of reading called, “One School, One Book.”
As part of the celebration, all of the school’s students in grades Pre-K-2, along with their teachers, read the book “Life” by Cynthia Rylant.
“Reading the same book brings our entire school community together,” Primary Elementary School Principal Mrs. O’Connell said. “It gives students from different grade levels a common theme to learn from and discuss, while promoting reading in our school.” 
In the 48-page book, Rylant offers a moving mediation on finding beauty around us and finding strength in adversity. She does so through the eyes of the world’s animals, including elephants, monkeys, whales and more.
During “One School, One Book,” students also participated in several activities over the course of a week.
On April 23, singer and guitarist, Jim McCarthy, performed a concert for students. His songs bring out the fun in reading.
On April 24, Erin Gruwell spoke to kindergarten, first and second grade students about the importance of being kind to others, overcoming challenges and embracing diversity. Gruwell is the author of the bestselling book, “The Freedom Writers Diary.” The book tells the story of Gruwell and her 150 at-risk students at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, California during the early 1990s. Determined to create a brighter future for her students, Gruwell transformed their outlook on school and life through writing and literature.
On April 25, the Utica Zoo Mobile visited the school. A caretaker brought along four different animals for students to see and learn about.
On April 26, “One School, One Book” concluded with an in ice cream social. Students made their own sundaes.
The Primary Elementary School looks forward to celebrating “One School, One Book” again next year!